Sunday, October 28, 2012

A Day at the Farm

Yesterday was such a beautiful Fall day (just a little chilly and windy with leaves blowing around). We tried out a different farm with a corn maze and lots of other fun activities. The corn maze wasn't quite as thrilling as last year's because the corn wasn't as high, and we didn't get clues to help challenge us through the maze, but the kids still loved it. We usually do a pumpkin patch sort of day with the cousins, but we just haven't been able to work that out yet. Grandma and Papa James came up to see Evan's soccer game so they enjoyed spending the day with the boys.

First, we explored a little of this fantastic old timey farm.

After working up a thirst at the corn maze, hayride, and playground, we hit the general store for some refreshing beverages. Mommy said there is nothing like an ice cold beverage in a glass bottle.

There were also "stores" selling homemade popcorn and roasted corn.

Brody said he wanted to finish his nap on this hammock.

It has a neat old train car from the early 1900's that has been restored so we could sit inside and get a feel for traveling in the old days.

Traveling by train is fun!

To the corn maze!

He enjoyed walking through the maze like a big boy.

And we're off!

When he got tired, he knew his Daddy would carry him!

Papa James and Grandma enjoyed a day with the boys.

Brody thought the rustling of the corn made a funny sound.

Brody wanted to lead the way and kept trying to steer us in the opposite direction of Daddy and Evan.

Evan points the way. He kept stopping and doing this but wouldn't wait for me to take his picture without Grandma holding him.

Our guide led us to the exit!

The Hayride!

Being pulled around a farm by a tractor while sitting on a hay bale on a flat bed truck is a must here in the south.

Brody clapping for the tractor.

His face says it all!

Mesmerized by the tractor.

And one of the boys together of course.

Mommy and Brody on the hayride.

Brody drives the tractor!

Tractor driving is so much fun!

And for comparison sake, here's Evan and Brody driving tractors at about the same age.

Brothers having a very engaging conversation.

Brody also enjoyed this tractor swing.

So sweet looking up at Daddy.

So cute how they make tractor swings out of old tires.

Both boys liked riding these.

Chicken coop slide

This little slide for young kids was so cute as it looked like they climbed up inside a chicken coop.

Brody climbed almost all the way up by himself.

On the way up.

He just needed a little help at the top because it was steep and slippery.

Preparing to slide down...backwards as usual.

Here he comes!

Corrugated metal makes a surprisingly slippery slide.

And he's at the bottom with dirty knees and pants.

Evan enjoyed the bigger slide out of the truck.

They used burlap sacks to slide faster.

Walking across the big haybales.

My big boy.

Me and my big baby.

Showing off his jumping skills.

And he made it!

Snack Time!

Brody loved Grandma's popcorn.

Munch munch munch!

Silly boy just loves to eat!

Target practice!

His first time shooting a gun. Yes, he wore glasses so he wouldn't "shoot his eye out." Ha!

Daddy is so excited to begin training Evan on the safe and proper use of a gun.

Horseback Riding!

And his first pony ride!

Farm Animals

Eddie tries to lasso a bull.

Got it by the horn.

Brody prefers bull riding.

Caught throwing a temper tantrum. He tripped and "ate it" and mean mommy took a picture before helping him.

Petting the sheep.

He loved the animals. Unfortunately they ran out of food before we got there.

So cute with the little goat.

Little ponies. Evan got to ride Star.

Family pictures!

Brothers!

Our Fall family picture.

I think these were best we got although Brody was snarling in this one and wasn't really smiling in the first one.

Trying for one with Papa and Grandma. Brody was not happy that Mommy left him.